My Polish Hen Has Head Lice!

[Chickensfan]

that helps a lot! just one question, how do i get her crest in the water? that is where it is the worst.

 

[bunsnpupsnchick]

For Toodles I scooped water in a cup & carefully poured it over her head (outside) and used the hand-held kitchen sprayer (inside). Easier if you have another set of hands available to help shield her eyes/nose for either. It's possible to do solo if you go slow/careful....had to do the same with her head. Wrapping her snug in a towel might help to keep her calm too.

If you don't mind bathing in a tub or kitchen sink & have a handheld sprayer that can make it much easier to direct the water & use the water's force as it comes out or even use a garden hose, just not on full blast, for outside bathing. I've done both with her & both have advantages/disadvantages. Oh, Toodles definitely seemed calmer with warmer water than colder. Find the right temp, might help too.

 

[Chickensfan]

thanks!

 

[bunsnpupsnchick]

Oh...you can leave the petroleum jelly on for a day or so to let it smother the mites, but do try to wash it off. I did a couple rounds of baths/jelly/baths over a week to ensure I was getting the suckers off of her. However because I was a complete dork & didn't do her entire body so they moved & really set up camp on her rump!!! Found that out months down the road & had to do it all again.....only her whole body. So far, so good.

From what I've read it's possible for them to have a few with just being outside due to wild birds...when they start causing problems that's the issue. My other birds haven't shown a sign of a problem...just her, but she's been 'special' with a constantly waivering head from day one so I think her system is compromised anyway.

If I'm missing something/wrong hopefully someone with more knowledge/experience will chime in. I can only state what I did & if it helped. Given a weekend..it's kind of DIY unless you're lucky with a vet.

 

[Chickensfan]

thank you! any advice helps a lot! I have contacted the vet for my little Hattie.

 

[Chickensfan]

thank you! any advice helps a lot! I have contacted the vet for my little Hattie.

 

[Chickensfan]

sorry, sent it 2 times!

 

[bunsnpupsnchick]

No worry...I tend to ramble & repeat myself without realizing it most of the time til way after. I hope Hattie does better.

 

[Chickensfan]

i fed her yogurt yesterday...(plain) SHE LOVED IT!!!!!!

 

[ShanandGem]

While you're waiting for your vet appointment have you considered trying some anti itch powder like Gold Bond just to relieve her discomfort? It sure looks painful.